Maria Sharapova Names Coco Gauff & Two More WTA Stars Who Have Recently Impressed Her
Maria Sharapova, a five-time Grand Slam champion and one of the most iconic figures in women’s tennis, recently shared her thoughts on the new generation of WTA players. Since retiring from professional tennis in 2020, Sharapova has remained an influential voice in the sport, frequently offering insights into the evolving landscape of women’s tennis. In a recent interview, she highlighted three players who have particularly impressed her in recent times: Coco Gauff, Mirra Andreeva, and Ons Jabeur.
Her recognition of these players sheds light on their remarkable performances and contributions to the sport. Each of them has demonstrated unique qualities that set them apart on the WTA tour, and Sharapova’s praise only further validates their growing influence in the tennis world.
Coco Gauff: The Rising American Superstar
Coco Gauff has been a sensation since she burst onto the scene as a 15-year-old at Wimbledon in 2019, stunning Venus Williams in the first round. Since then, she has continued to rise through the ranks, securing her place as one of the sport’s brightest young stars.
Gauff’s biggest breakthrough came in 2023 when she won her first Grand Slam title at the US Open. Her victory in New York was a defining moment, solidifying her as the future of American tennis. Sharapova was particularly impressed by Gauff’s maturity and composure during that tournament.
“I was so impressed with how Coco handled the victory in New York last year,” Sharapova said in an interview. “The way she managed the pressure and expectations at such a young age was remarkable. She has a strong head on her shoulders, and that’s crucial in this sport.”
Gauff’s playing style is a blend of raw athleticism and strategic intelligence. She possesses one of the best backhands in the game and has significantly improved her serve and net play over the years. These improvements were evident during her run at the WTA Finals in 2024, where she defeated some of the top-ranked players in the world, including Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka.
With her rapid development and unwavering determination, Gauff is expected to continue making waves on the tour. Her ability to handle immense pressure and her hunger for success make her one of the most exciting players to watch.
Mirra Andreeva: The Teenage Sensation from Russia
While Coco Gauff has already established herself as a Grand Slam champion, Mirra Andreeva is still in the early stages of her career but has shown tremendous potential. At just 17 years old, Andreeva has already made a name for herself with her fearless approach to the game.
Sharapova, who herself won Wimbledon as a teenager in 2004, sees a lot of similarities between her younger self and Andreeva.
“It’s great seeing the rise of new names and opportunities for young athletes like Mirra Andreeva,” Sharapova noted. “She has an incredible amount of potential, and her composure on the court is beyond her years.”
Andreeva had an outstanding 2024 season, making a deep run at the French Open, where she reached the semifinals. Her performances against some of the biggest names in the sport, including a thrilling victory over Ons Jabeur, showcased her ability to compete at the highest level.
One of Andreeva’s biggest strengths is her tactical mindset. Unlike many young players who rely heavily on power, Andreeva combines intelligent shot selection with excellent court movement. Her defensive skills and ability to construct points patiently have drawn comparisons to some of the best counterpunchers in the game.
She also impressed at the Brisbane International in early 2025, reaching the semifinals and matching milestones previously achieved by young stars like Gauff and Sharapova herself. Her ability to handle big moments with such poise suggests that she is on track for a highly successful career.
Ons Jabeur: The Trailblazer from Tunisia
Ons Jabeur has been one of the most exciting players to watch over the past few years. Known for her creativity and unorthodox playing style, Jabeur has captured the hearts of tennis fans worldwide. She is the first Arab woman to reach a Grand Slam final, having finished as a runner-up at Wimbledon and the US Open.
Sharapova praised Jabeur not only for her skills on the court but also for her role in inspiring a new generation of players from the Middle East and North Africa.
“Ons Jabeur has done so much for the sport, especially in terms of representation,” Sharapova said. “She has opened doors for young girls in regions where tennis hasn’t been as accessible. And on the court, she’s just so entertaining to watch.”
Jabeur’s game is a refreshing departure from the baseline-heavy power tennis that dominates the tour. She uses finesse, variety, and tactical awareness to outplay her opponents. Her drop shots, slices, and ability to change the pace of rallies make her a tricky opponent for even the most powerful hitters.
Despite coming close to winning a Grand Slam multiple times, Jabeur is still searching for that elusive first major title. However, her consistent performances at the highest level prove that she is a legitimate contender at every tournament she enters.
The Future of Women’s Tennis
Sharapova’s recognition of Gauff, Andreeva, and Jabeur highlights the exciting future of women’s tennis. Each of these players brings something unique to the table:
- Gauff represents the new wave of American dominance with her athleticism and all-around game.
- Andreeva is a rising star with incredible potential and the mentality to succeed at the highest level.
- Jabeur continues to break barriers and entertain fans with her creative shot-making.
The WTA has seen a shift in recent years, with new faces challenging the established hierarchy. The rise of young talents like Gauff and Andreeva, along with experienced players like Jabeur, has created an exciting mix of competition.
Sharapova’s words carry significant weight, as she was once in the same position as these young players—rising through the ranks and facing immense pressure at a young age. Her praise not only acknowledges their current achievements but also serves as a challenge for them to continue striving for greatness.
Sharapova’s Continued Influence
Even after retiring, Sharapova remains a key figure in the sport. She has ventured into business and philanthropy while staying closely connected to tennis. Her involvement in promoting women’s health and her work with organizations like the WTA Global Women’s Health Fund further showcase her commitment to making a difference beyond the court.
Her recognition of these three players serves as a reminder of her deep understanding of the game and her ability to spot future champions. Gauff, Andreeva, and Jabeur have already accomplished great things, but with Sharapova’s endorsement, expectations for their futures are even higher.
Conclusion
Maria Sharapova’s recent comments about Coco Gauff, Mirra Andreeva, and Ons Jabeur reinforce just how exciting the current era of women’s tennis is. Gauff continues to establish herself as a dominant force, Andreeva is quickly emerging as a future star, and Jabeur remains a pioneer in the sport.
With the 2025 season unfolding, all three players have a chance to further cement their legacies. Whether it’s Gauff chasing another Grand Slam title, Andreeva breaking into the top 10, or Jabeur finally capturing that elusive major, the future of the WTA looks incredibly bright.
Sharapova’s words serve as both recognition and motivation, and if history is any indication, these three players are well on their way to leaving a lasting mark on the sport.
